University of Twente

UT is an entrepreneurial research university with a focus on technological developments in the knowledge society. The UT counts almost 8000 students at Bachelor and Master level. The total staff count is just over 2300 full-time employees, of which 60% scientific staff, and there are about 750 PhD researchers.The Laboratory of Mechanical Automation of UT, taking part in the FAB2ASM project, is part of the faculty of Engineering Technology. It contributes to the educational program Mechanical Engineering. The research is part of the University’s Institute of Mechanics, Processes and Control-Twente (IMPACT). It is concerned with the design and development of methods and equipment for the control and automation of mechanical systems (e.g. robots) and physical processes (e.g. laser material processing). Knowledge is transferred to industry by process or product oriented application studies.

Role of UT in the FAB2ASM project

UT will focus on laser material interactions for micromachining (texturing, drilling and filling) in WP2. One of the main tasks is the development of a Laser Induced Forward Transfer (LIFT) process for TSV filling. Also, texturing for hydrophobicity and hydrofilicity is done by laser direct write technology for enabling capillary self-alignment. In addition Dissemination, Exploitation and Training will be done under the supervision of the UT. UT is work package leader of WP7.

Key persons

Professor Dr. Ir. A.J. Huis in‘t Veld - Master in Physics, Ph.D. Materials Science, is leading the laser technology group at Twente University. He has over 20 years experience in performing R&D projects, national and international projects for a large number of public bodies and companies varying from multinational companies to SME’s. Moreover he has a broad experience in knowledge transfer and management of R&D projects since he was leading a research department of TNO in the Netherlands of 35 persons working on several subjects in the field of Materials Performance. He is an expert in surface engineering focusing on laser surface engineering for functional performance of materials: metals, polymers and ceramics.Dr. Ir. G.R.B.E. Römer - Master in Electrical Engineering, Ph.D. Mechanical Engineering. He is an Associate Professor of the laser technology group at Twente University. He has over 15 years experience in executing as well as managing national and international R&D laser projects for a large number of public bodies and companies. In addition, as manager R&D of a company developing advanced robotics, for several years, he has a broad experience in knowledge transfer and management of R&D projects in the private sector. Further, his scientific focus and excellence is on the development of process-sensors, the modelling and real-time control of laser-material processes (to ensure reliable processing results), as well as robotics and mechatronics.